EDITORIAL: Senseless crime may delay start new Engleman school opening

Vandalism in all cases is a senseless, wasteful act. It does nothing but leave property damaged and extra work for others.

The vandalism committed at the new Engleman Elementary School this week was particularly disheartening. Students and teachers at the current overcrowded Engleman have long looked forward to moving into the renovated former Westridge Middle School.

Now, because of the vandalism committed at the school they may have to wait longer than they expected.

Sometime last weekend, a vandal or vandals entered the building and opened a water line that flooded part of the school. The gym floor may be ruined. The cafeteria, the band room, the vocal music room and insulation waiting to be installed were all damaged.

This week, instead of forwarding the renovation, workers have had to repair the water damage.

It's uncertain whether this will set back completion of the project, which was expected to be completed in November. But there's no doubt it will hurt the timing, especially if the gym floor has to be replaced.

Another concern is the cost of repairing the damage. The gym floor itself could cost more than $100,000. Fortunately, the school district had insurance on the project, but still, paying for the damage is coming out of someone's pockets.

While the purpose of vandalism is hard to understand, it's important that police investigate the crime with vigor and that the perpetrators be fully prosecuted. Vandalism such as this is not just an innocent prank. It's a damaging act that others have to pay for.

In this case, it's the approximately 300 students and 15 teachers who will be paying the price as their move out of cramped conditions will likely be delayed because of the work of vandals.